1. Safe environment: Creating a physically and emotionally safe space where students feel protected and respected, while also making the school an aesthetically stimulating and comfortable place for them.
Example: Teachers can create a “calm zone” in the classroom, where students can retreat if they need a break or to relax without feeling uncomfortable. This relaxation zone can include soothing elements like cushions or sensory tools. It’s important to establish rules that emphasize mutual respect and zero tolerance for bullying or disrespect of differences and diversity.
- Building trust: Transparent and reliable communication between teachers and students that fosters trust and mutual respect.
Example: A teacher regularly discusses each student’s progress, offers an open-door policy for discussions, and remains consistent and reliable. For instance, if a teacher promises to help a student with a specific task, they always follow through, which strengthens trust and the sense of safety.
- Support and collaboration: Strengthening the sense of community through mutual support and collaboration among students.
Example: The teacher organizes regular group activities where students work together on projects and support each other. For instance, during a group project, each student contributes creatively, and they learn together that mutual support helps overcome challenges.
- Individual approach and support: Adapting teaching to the individual and special needs of students, as well as teaching emotional regulation skills.
Example: The teacher notices that a student struggles with concentration due to anxiety. Instead of punishing them, the teacher offers longer breaks and individual tasks focused on emotional regulation, such as breathing exercises. Students gradually learn to better manage their emotions and improve their focus.
- Family engagement and professional development: Collaboration with families and communities, along with teacher training in trauma support.
Example: The school organizes regular meetings with parents to discuss student needs and find ways to better connect the school and home environments. For instance, a parent supporting a child who has experienced trauma meets with the teacher, and together they create a plan to improve the child’s learning at school. At the same time, teachers undergo regular training on topics like ACE awareness, trauma symptom recognition, trauma-informed teaching, and crisis preparedness, ensuring they are ready to support their students effectively.